The award was announced by the office of Australia’s Minister for Sustainability, Environment and Conservation Ian Hunter — and no, he’s not the Ian Hunter who was in Mott the Hoople.

“Since he came to office in 2011, Gov. Cuomo has taken a leading role in climate change reform,” Hunter said in a statement.

More from the release:

“Under his leadership, New York State’s energy policy has shifted significantly in an attempt to protect the environment, cut utility bills and support new opportunities for economic growth.

“Governor Cuomo has been a strong supporter of clean energy policies in the United States, through major energy policies such as:

The US$1 billion NY Green Bank, a state sponsored investment fund and the largest initiative of its kind in the nation, to enable greater investment in clean energy.

A reduction in the carbon emission cap by 45 percent and a reduction in carbon pollution by 2.9 million tons.

A US$17 billion strategy to transform New York’s infrastructure, transportation networks, energy supply, coastal protection, weather warning system and emergency management to better protect New Yorkers from the impact of climate change.”

“These are outstanding examples of the valuable role that state and regional governments can play in tackling climate change.”

In addition to Schwarzenegger, past winners of the award are former Quebec Premier Jean Charest, First Minister of Scotland Alex Salmond and Governor Geraldo Alckmin of the State of Sao Paulo in Brazil.

Here is something else with Andrews name on it. Surprised that the TU has not picked up on this, but then again, that would show that there are more people in the satate that are against Andy than just a bunch of state worker bloggers.

Cuomo, if you were a for real Governor you would have questioned National Grid and their recent behavior towards utility bills and perhaps opened an investigation into their validity. But that’s beyond you I guess. You just want to pose in pretty picture photo ops and chastise public employees. Now that’s worth an award I guess.

Too bad Corporate Cuomo did not stand up for the people and challenge ellectric companies…the reason why the rates doubled. The media should follow where the extra millions went that was collected. This is an election year?